On March 11, the World Health Organization officially classified the COVID-19 outbreak as a pandemic, indicating that every location is likely to be affected, though the exact timing and impact cannot be predicted. Non-essential international and domestic travel should be deferred due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global logistical environment, healthcare systems in all locations, the global economy, the potential for second-order security issues in the short, medium and longer term, as well as the risk of infection with COVID-19. A new virus, SARS-CoV-2, is the cause of COVID-19 disease. The WHO is still learning about the virus and the illness it causes. The disease is spreading from person to person, through contact with infected respiratory droplets. The disease is a mild illness for most; however, it can be severe or fatal to high risk groups.
For more information on confirmed cases of COVID-19 globally, refer to the latest Situation Report on the World Health Organization (WHO) website by clicking here. For more general information on the outbreak and WHO’s response, click here.
TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS IMPLEMENTED WORLDWIDE
A number of countries have relaxed some restrictions that aimed to contain the spread of COVID-19. This includes the relaxation of restrictions on internal movement, reopening of businesses and a resumption of some domestic and international travel. Nevertheless, strict measures remain in place, or are being reimposed, in some locations where there is increasing case activity. In some locations all travel should continue to be deferred, while for others essential travel can resume after undertaking an individual risk assessment of the COVID-19 situation and entry restrictions, including the potential for sudden changes.
Countries around the world are implementing entry restrictions in an effort to contain the spread of COVID-19. For the most upto-date information on current entry restrictions, please visit IATA’s “Government Measures Related to Coronavirus (COVID19)” website by clicking here.
FROSCH TRAVEL RESOURCES
AMERICAS
TROPICAL STORM ETA
Travelers in southeastern states until at least November 13 should continue to anticipate disruption during the passage of Tropical Storm Eta. According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), the storm is centered off the coast of South Carolina and will continue to weaken as it moves in a northeastern direction. Heavy rain and strong winds can be expected in areas in or near the storm’s path.
UNITED STATES
Travelers should monitor developments and follow all official directives related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Most states have begun to lift restrictions on mobility and non-essential businesses, though some have halted reopening plans due to a significant increase in COVID-19 cases within at least 40 of the 50 states. The varied impact of the outbreak and local pressure by constituents has led state governors to reopen businesses and lift stay-at-home orders; however, some have issued mandates on wearing masks in public places and quarantining when returning from certain states with high case numbers. More than 3.8 million cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in the United States, with increased activity in the South and West.
NATIONWIDE DEMONSTRATIONS
Travelers in the US in the coming hours should exercise caution and anticipate demonstrations with regards to the November 3 General Election and police reform. There are persistent underlying risks associated with such events. This is due to the emotive nature of the issues and the potential presence of firearms, counter-demonstrators, and extremist individuals. Travelers near protest venues should anticipate disruption and possible clashes between protesters, counter-demonstrators, and police. Travelers attending related gatherings should be aware of their surroundings, maintain access to reliable means of communication, and leave at the first sign of unrest.
CALIFORNIA
Travelers in California continue to reconfirm the status of routes and follow official directives amid multiple ongoing wildfires which have prompted a State of Emergency and the closure of several major routes. Mandatory Evacuation Orders have also been issued for multiple counties. At least 32 people have so far been killed, and more than 300,000 others evacuated. While some of the fires have been largely contained, residual disruption remains possible in affected areas.
COLORADO
Travelers in Colorado should continue to plan journeys accounting for disruption due to ongoing wildfires. The two remaining fires, the Cameron Peak and East Troublesome fires, have become the first and second largest in the state’s history. They have also prompted the closure of several major roadways in Larimer and Grand counties. Travelers in affected areas should reconfirm the status of routes and follow all official directives.
FLORIDA
Travelers in Florida state in the coming days should continue to anticipate disruption during the passage of Tropical Storm Eta. The storm made landfall in the Florida Keys overnight on November 8-9, causing flooding in several cities. The storm has downgraded to a tropical storm just hours after it had gained hurricane strength on November 11. Eta is forecast to move through the southwest coast of Florida to the west-central coast on the evening of November 11 and weaken after it moves inland over the northern areas of the peninsula on November 12. By late November 12 or early November 13, Eta is forecast to move northeastward through the western Atlantic.
SOUTH CAROLINA
Operations have resumed at Charleston International Airport (CHS). A suspicious package, which prompted the evacuation of the facility earlier on November 11, has now been given the all-clear. Road traffic leading to the airport has also resumed.
WASHINGTON DC
Travelers in Washington DC on November 14 should plan journeys bypassing rival demonstrations as a precaution. The Proud Boys and several other far-right organizations intend to stage a protest, dubbed the “Million MAGA March,” to denounce the results of the November 3 Presidential Election. They will gather at Freedom Plaza at 12:00 PM local time. A counter-protest is also set to take place from 11:30 AM local time at the same location. Further related demonstrations are likely on the day, with potential flashpoints to include the Whitehouse and Black Lives Matter Plaza. There are underlying risks associated with such events due to the emotive nature of the issues and the potential presence of firearms, counter-demonstrators, and extremist individuals.
WYOMING
Travelers in Wyoming should continue to plan journeys accounting for disruption due to multiple ongoing wildfires which have prompted the closure of several major roads, as well as mandatory Evacuation Orders and PreEvacuation Notices for multiple counties. Travelers in affected areas should reconfirm the status of routes and follow all official directives.
BOLIVIA
Travelers in Bolivia over the coming days should continue to anticipate and avoid further gatherings linked to the results of the October 18 General Election. Opponents of the victorious Movement for Socialism (MAS) party have staged protests against the results. Meanwhile, ousted former president Evo Morales (in office 2006-19) returned to the country from exile in neighboring Argentina on November 9. Pro-and anti-MAS gatherings are likely to continue in the coming days. Such events are liable to disrupt travel and may result in confrontations between rival groups, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
FRENCH GUIANA
Travelers in the Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni commune over the coming days should plan journeys accounting for possible further roadblocks by students over a dispute with local transport companies. On November 12, protesters blocked the D9 Motorway in several locations, including around the towns of Mana and Charvein. Although the demonstrations passed off peacefully, further related protests are likely and should be avoided as a precaution.
HONDURAS
Travelers due to travel via Ramon Villeda Morales International Airport (SAP), which serves San Pedro Sula, should reconfirm flights and make alternative transport arrangements. Flooding during the passage of Tropical Storm Eta has prompted the closure of the airport until at least November 25. The airport will still accept humanitarian aid flights during the closure.
MARTINIQUE
Travelers in Martinique over the coming days should anticipate disruption caused by recent heavy rain and significant flooding in parts of the island. Incessant rain has also triggered mudslides, further damaging roads, buildings and homes. Northeastern municipalities, such as Gros-Morne, Le Lorrain, Marigot and Sainte-Marie, have been particularly badly affected, while disruption has been reported on main highways such as the RN1, RD3, RD25 and RD27 roads. Further rain is forecast until at least November 14 and is liable to exacerbate the situation.
MEXICO
Throughout November, travelers in urban centers, particularly Mexico City, should plan journeys accounting for disruption during anti-government demonstrations. The National Anti-AMLO Front group, which is calling for President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador’s resignation, plan to stage a major rally in Mexico City on November 21. Related gatherings may also take place in the interim and may disrupt travel. Travelers should reconfirm the status of routes prior to departure.
Travelers in Cancun on November 13-15 should avoid further protests against alleged police brutality, due to the risk of unrest. Demonstrations during this period are due to take place outside the Municipal Government Palace from 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM local time. Related rallies may also take place in Mexico City and should also be avoided as a precaution.
PERU
Travelers in Lima and other urban centers over the coming hours should anticipate and avoid planned protests, due to the risk of local unrest. The events are linked to the recent impeachment of former President Martin Vizcarra (in office 2018-20). Flashpoints for demonstrations include public squares and government buildings.
AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST
BAHRAIN
Travelers in Bahrain should anticipate disruption to government services until November 15 during the mourning period for Prime Minister Khalifa bin Salman al-Khalifa, who died on November 11. Authorities have declared a oneweek mourning period, during which government offices will be closed for three days from November 12. Travelers should plan for associated disruption and reconfirm appointments during this period.
BURKINA FASO
Travelers in Burkina Faso should monitor developments and avoid all gatherings related to the November 22 Presidential and Legislative Elections. Thirteen candidates will be competing in the first round Presidential Election. Should no candidate obtain an absolute majority, a run-off election will take place within 15 days of the release of the final results of the first round. The threat of militant attacks around the vote is elevated, as exemplified by an attack on November 8 against a government official in Goudebo. While significant social unrest is not expected around the vote, travelers should avoid all political gatherings as a precaution.
At least 14 soldiers were killed, and eight injured, on November 11 after they were ambushed near the village of Beldiabe. Earlier, on November 2, another eight people were killed in an attack on a mining site near Madoudji. These incidents notably follow the October 14 killing of at least 20 people in the villages of Demniol, Bomboa and Peteguerse. Militant groups maintain a stronghold in the north of the country. They have also, over the past year, expanded their territories in central and eastern areas, significantly increasing the overall risks posed by terrorism. Travelers should ensure they abide by movement restrictions imposed in response to militancy and the COVID-19 pandemic.
CHAD
Cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) have been detected in several regions of the country. Polio is a contagious viral illness that can cause paralysis and death. It is spread through contaminated food or water, or directly from an infected person. The circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) strains can emerge in under-vaccinated populations. Travelers are advised to prevent infection by ensuring polio vaccination is up to date, including a booster, and selecting safe food and water.
CONGO (DRC)
Travelers in urban centers on November 14 should avoid rallies called by supporters of the ruling Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS) political party due to the risk of unrest. In Kinshasa, demonstrators will gather in the eastern Tshangu district before marching towards Boulevard Triomphal. A counter-march is also expected to take place on the same day from Place Échangeur to the Stadium of Martyrs. The gatherings are likely to be well-attended and may escalate into local clashes involving rival demonstrators and security forces, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
COTE D’ IVOIRE
Travelers should minimize movement and abide by curfews imposed in several opposition strongholds. A nightly curfew is in place from 7:00 PM to 6:00 AM local time in Bongouanou, Daoukro, Mbatto, Toumodi, Bonoua, Dabou, Ndouci, Sikensi and Divo. Since August, at least 85 people have been killed in communal clashes and unrest related to the presidential elections. Further such incidents may prompt additional curfews or changes in timings. Travelers should keep abreast of developments.
ETHIOPIA
Throughout November, travelers in Oromia should exercise caution after gunmen killed at least 54 people, reportedly ethnic-Amharas, on November 1 in the West Wollega zone. Several houses were also burned. The attack follows the withdrawal of federal security forces from the area. Authorities have blamed the attack on the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), an armed splinter group of the Oromo Liberation Front political party, but these claims cannot be substantiated. Further attacks are likely, which would pose incidental risks to bystanders.
Travelers in Ethiopia in the coming days should continue to defer travel to Tigray state amid reports of ongoing military clashes. Those within the state should continue to stand fast until the situation has stabilized and communications are restored. Federal forces have reportedly carried out airstrikes targeting a Tigrayan armed group’s positions and assets across the state, including in Mekelle. Fighting continues to be reported in areas of Tigray bordering Amhara state. Statewide telecommunications services remain blocked, and airspace over Tigray remains closed. Continued clashes are likely between local military groups and federal security forces in all aforementioned areas of Tigray.
GABON
Travelers in Libreville should plan journeys accounting for disruption during the temporary closure of Boulevard Triomphal until November 19 for maintenance works.
IRAQ
Travelers in southern governorates in the coming days should exercise caution and anticipate further disruption caused by adverse weather. The area has seen heavy rainfall since November 10, which has led to flooded roads and facilities. Al-Hartha, al-Qurnah and al-Zubayr districts of Basra City have experienced heavy flooding, exacerbated by deteriorated drainage infrastructure.
ISRAEL
Travelers in Israel in the coming weeks should continue to anticipate and avoid further weekly protests in urban centers. Demonstrations are expected to continue due to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s corruption trial and the government’s COVID-19 response. Protests demanding Netanyahu’s resignation have occurred on a weekly basis since July. Well-attended protests took place on November 7 at the Prime Minister’s residence in Jerusalem, as well as Habima Square and Rabin Square in Tel Aviv. While these protests passed off peacefully, previous gatherings have been forcibly dispersed by police, with several arrests made. Further demonstrations should be avoided to minimize inconvenience.
LEBANON
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to Lebanon amid a tightening of COVID-19-related restrictions. A twoweek lockdown will come into effect on November 14 as part of authorities’ efforts to curb the spread of the disease. The lockdown includes a nightly curfew from 5:00 PM to 5:00 AM local time. Public areas such as gyms, shopping malls, beaches, bars and public pools will be closed. In addition, driving vehicles is banned on Sundays. On other days, the odd and even number license plate scheme for road use by vehicles applies.
LIBERIA
Travelers in Monrovia and other urban centers should anticipate and avoid anti-government demonstrations from November 16, due to the risk of unrest. The rallies, called by the Council of Patriots activist movement, are linked to persistent political and socio-economic grievances. Scuffles between participants and government supporters are possible, while gatherings may be forcibly dispersed by police. Potential flashpoints in Monrovia include government buildings in the Capitol Hill area, as well as Tubman Boulevard and the University of Liberia campus.
MALI
Travelers in urban centers should expect disruption and avoid all gatherings related to a trade union strike from November 18-20. Labor unions have called for a nationwide strike against a perceived lack of employment rights. While most events are likely to pass off peacefully, local unrest during demonstrations cannot be ruled out.
NIGERIA
Travelers in Lagos beginning July 24 should expect significant travel disruption during planned repair work on the Third Mainland Bridge and plan journeys using alternative routes. The Lagos State Government announced the partial closure of the bridge until January 2021 for maintenance works. Travelers should anticipate increased traffic congestion and a potential surge in crime on congested routes during the closure of the bridge.
Travelers in Delta state over the coming days should anticipate and avoid further protests linked to communal grievances due to the risk of unrest. On November 12, residents of the Ndokwa West local government area erected roadblocks along the Kwale-Asaba motorway, blocking traffic for several hours. Residents were protesting against authorities’ decision to grant independent administrative status to the nearby town of Beneku. Although no clashes were reported, further related gatherings are liable to be forcibly dispersed by security forces and to cause significant road travel disruption.
SAUDI ARABIA
Travelers should exercise vigilance and minimize time spent around potential targets for attacks following an explosion on November 11 in Jeddah. International media reports indicate that at least two people were injured after an explosive device detonated during an Armistice Day commemorative event at the Non-Muslim Cemetery in the al-Balad area. The event was attended by several foreign diplomats. Investigations are ongoing. While the threat of militancy in Saudi Arabia is latent, the incident highlights the risk of low-level and opportunistic attacks.
SOMALIA
Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) cases have been detected in multiple locations. cVDPV strains can emerge in under-vaccinated populations. Travelers are recommended to be fully immunized against polio prior to travel. Polio is a contagious viral illness that causes paralysis and death. The infection is spread through ingestion of contaminated food or water, or directly from an infected person.
At least two people were killed on November 12 when a roadside bomb detonated along 21 October Road in the Waaberi district in Mogadishu. The attack may have been targeting the Commissioner of the Hodan district, who escaped with injuries. The incident highlights the persistent militant threat in the capital, where the travel risks are extreme. Travelers should minimize non-essential travel outside secure premises and liaise with their dedicated security provider for all essential movement.
SOUTH AFRICA
Travelers in Bloemfontein in the coming hours should plan journeys avoiding the Magistrate Court due to an ongoing protest by Travelers of the African National Congress. The gathering is being held in support of their Secretary General, who is due to appear at the court on corruption charges. Surrounding roads have been blocked.
SUDAN
Throughout November, travelers in Khartoum and other urban centers should anticipate and avoid further antigovernment protests over socio-economic issues. Protesters gathered over the weekend of October 31-November 1 in Atbara, and previously on October 26 and 29 in Khartoum and other cities, in protest of the latest hike in fuel prices. The protesters are denouncing worsening socio-economic conditions, including bread and fuel shortages and inflation. Police may forcibly disperse demonstrations, which poses incidental risks to bystanders. Travelers should monitor developments and avoid areas experiencing unrest.
UGANDA
Travelers in urban centers should anticipate and avoid further rallies in support of the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) party. NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (popularly known as Bobi Wine) was recently certified as a presidential candidate in the 2021 elections. Election campaigns by Kyagulanyi are under way despite they are commonly denied authorization from officials. These campaign events are well attended and often forcefully dispersed by police due to gatherings being unauthorized. On November 11, police deployed tear gas, among other measures, in Gulu and Kitgum districts during unauthorized rallies held in support of Kyagulanyi.
ZAMBIA
Travelers in Lusaka on November 15 should plan journeys bypassing a rally organized by the opposition United Party for National Development as a precaution and to minimize travel delays. Participants will gather from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM local time at the Chilenje South Secondary School. The event has been approved by authorities and is likely to pass off without incident. Nonetheless, there remains a risk of local disturbances and associated traffic disruption in the vicinity.
ASIA & THE PACIFIC
CAMBODIA
Travelers should plan journeys in the coming days accounting for possible disruption due to adverse weather conditions. The Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology has warned of the impact of two weather systems approaching the country. Former tropical storm Etau, now a low-pressure area, will bring heavy rainfall on November 11-12. Severe Tropical Storm Vamco is forecast to pass over Cambodia as a Tropical Depression on November 15. Flooding due to heavy rainfall is possible in low-lying or coastal areas.
CHINA
Travelers in China should defer non-essential travel to areas in Shanghai and Tianjin where restrictions have been tightened following an increase in COVID-19 cases. The government raised its risk rating to ‘medium’ (middle on a three-tier scale) for Yingqiancun in Shanghai and Hangu Street and Tianjin fishing port in Tianjin. In several cities, travelers who departed from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) are required to present a certificate proving they have tested negative for COVID-19 no more than seven days before their departure and undergo a 14- day quarantine upon arrival. This does not apply to travelers who only transited the airport.
Travelers in China should defer non-essential travel to Kashgar following an increase in COVID-19 cases and tightened restrictions on outbound travel. Outbound travelers are required to present a certificate proving they have tested negative for COVID-19 no more than seven days before their departure. They may be subject to additional measures upon entering other provinces, including quarantine requirements. Local authorities elsewhere, including in Beijing and Shanghai, have advised their residents to defer non-essential travel to Kashgar. Authorities are liable to announce measures at short notice in the coming weeks.
HONG KONG
Travelers in Hong Kong should monitor developments surrounding the disqualification of four opposition members of the Legislative Council on November 11, and the subsequent resignation of 15 opposition lawmakers. The events occurred after the China government passed legislation that allows them to disqualify lawmakers who they feel have committed acts that threaten national security. The frequency and turnout of protests will remain low, particularly amid ongoing COVID-19-related restrictions; however, underlying tensions may continue to prompt small-scale gatherings, which should be avoided as a precaution.
INDIA
Travelers in urban centers should expect increased security and associated disruption ahead of and during the Hindu festival of Diwali on November 14. Large crowds can be expected at transport hubs and markets, which also increase the risk of petty crime. Militancy and communal unrest also pose risks during the festival period. Authorities may impose short-notice COVID-19-related measures on gatherings and movement.
Travelers should avoid further protests over new farm laws in the coming weeks. The All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee (AIKSCC) farmers’ organization plans to hold related demonstrations in Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on November 26-27; however, police have banned all such gatherings. While the AIKSCC has petitioned authorities to permit the demonstrations, the group has also stated that it will proceed with the protests even if the ban remains in place. These are expected to be well-attended amid heightened security presence. Farmers’ groups and opposition parties claim the new laws weaken government support for the agricultural sector.
INDONESIA
Throughout November, travelers in urban centers should anticipate and avoid further protests related to remarks made by French President Emmanuel Macron. Large demonstrations were held on November 2-4 in several cities, including Jakarta. While rallies in recent days have passed off peacefully, there remains a risk of local unrest during further gatherings. Authorities are likely to implement pre-emptive road closures and traffic diversions near protests.
Travelers in Indonesia over the coming weeks should plan journeys accounting for disruption caused by heavy rain and flooding. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) has forecast that intense rain will affect most parts of the country during November. Such conditions have previously resulted in flooding and landslides. These have affected thousands of people and damaged infrastructure in several areas, including Jakarta. Travelers should reconfirm the feasibility of journeys with local contacts before setting out.
Travelers in Jakarta and other urban centers should continue to avoid all demonstrations over the controversial ‘Omnibus Law’ due to the risk of unrest. Labor and student groups claim the legislation degrades labor rights and environmental protection. While most associated demonstrations are likely to remain small, labor groups-led rallies are likely to be well-attended. Police are liable to forcibly disperse demonstrations and implement traffic diversions near protest venues.
Travelers in Indonesia over the coming weeks should avoid gatherings linked to the December 9 local elections, as a precaution. Despite COVID-19-related government directives to minimize in-person campaigns, gatherings continue to take place in cities and towns where polling will take place. Such events can be expected to increase in frequency as the elections approach, especially until the end of the campaign period on December 5.
KAZAKHSTAN
Travelers in Almaty on November 14 should anticipate disruption around an authorized protest from 12:00 PM local time at Chokan Valikhanov Square. Participants have made various demands, including the release of political prisoners.
KYRGYZSTAN
Throughout November, travelers in urban centers should continue to exercise caution, monitor developments, and avoid all gatherings related to forthcoming Parliamentary and Presidential Elections. On October 22, Parliament passed a law delaying the re-run Parliamentary Election until at least June 1, 2021, to permit constitutional reforms to be enacted. The next Presidential Election is currently scheduled for January 10, 2021. Widespread unrest has diminished following the October 15 resignation of former President Sooronbay Jeenbekov. Newly-appointed Prime Minister Sadyr Japarov has also assumed the role of interim President until elections are held.
LAOS
Travelers in central and northern provinces should plan journeys accounting for disruption during the passage of Severe Tropical Storm Vamco until at least November 17. The weather system is forecast to make landfall in central Vietnam on November 15, before moving to central and northeastern Laos between November 15-16. Heavy rainfall and strong winds can be expected across central and northern provinces on November 14-17. Short-notice disruption is possible at airports in affected areas, including Xieng Khouang Airport (XKH) and Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ).
MONGOLIA
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to Mongolia due to restrictions related to COVID-19. Authorities have imposed a series of internal restrictions until at least 6:00 AM local time on November 17. As part of these measures, the public have been advised to stay home and refrain from non-essential activities and movement. Essential services remain open during this period. All outbound travel options from Ulaanbaatar, including domestic flights, passenger trains and travel via private vehicles, have been temporarily halted.
MYANMAR
Travelers in Myanmar in the coming days should monitor developments and continue to avoid political gatherings following the announcement on November 13 of the November 8 General Election results. The ruling National League for Democracy (NLD) won the majority of seats in Parliament. The military-backed opposition Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) have denounced the elections as unfair, a charge rejected by the Union Election Commission (UEC). Despite COVID-19-related restrictions, protests by supporters of rival parties and celebratory gatherings are likely. Local clashes between supporters of rival parties remain possible, which would pose incidental risks to bystanders.
NEW CALEDONIA
Throughout November, travelers in Noumea and other urban centers in South province should monitor developments on the planned sale of a major nickel plant in Goro. Groups opposed to the sale have stated that they will hold fresh gatherings over the issue and have threatened to block access to the plant, though further details have not been announced. An announcement about the sale is expected in the coming days. On October 30, thousands attended a related rally in Noumea. Precedent suggests that further protests are likely to focus around the New Caledonian Government Complex, the French High Commission, and Hotel de la Province Sud.
PAKISTAN
Travelers in urban centers over the coming weeks should continue to avoid protests by both ruling and opposition parties. Anti-government protests organized by the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) are set to continue until January 2021, while the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) can be expected to occasionally stage counter-rallies. Traffic disruption and heightened security measures can be expected around protest locations.
PHILIPPINES
Movement can resume with caution in areas worst-affected by the passage of Typhoon Vamco (known locally as Ulysses). According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), Vamco re-intensified into a typhoon before exiting the Philippines Area of Responsibility on the morning of November 13. Most roads have reopened; however, power, water and telecommunication outages persist in many affected locations. The arrival of monsoon rains in parts of Luzon Island may delay ongoing restoration efforts. Residual disruption to travel and essential services remain possible in the coming days. Travelers should reconfirm the status of routes before setting out.
SINGAPORE
Travel to Singapore may proceed, subject to entry restrictions and the establishment of bilateral travel arrangements. ‘Safe Travel’ arrangements are in place with Australia, Brunei, mainland China, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Vietnam. The latest such accord was negotiated between Singapore and Hong Kong and will begin on November 22. Further arrangements may follow in the coming weeks. The requirements for travel vary depending on the specific arrangements.
SOUTH KOREA
Travelers in Seoul and other urban centers on November 14 should plan their journeys bypassing gatherings organized by activists affiliated with the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions from 2:00 PM local time. Participants will reportedly congregate in 25 locations across Seoul, including Yeouido Park and Jongno, Mapo, Yeongdeungpo and Seocho areas. Seoul’s police force has stated that it will disperse any gatherings with more than 100 participants. Related gatherings can also be expected in Busan, Daegu and Ulsan cities as well as urban centers in Gangwon and Jeju provinces.
THAILAND
Travelers in Bangkok on November 14 should avoid all anti-government and pro-royalist demonstrations and related gatherings. More than 5,000 security force personnel will be deployed to protest venues, which is likely to cause local traffic disruption. Travelers are advised to regularly liaise with local contacts to stay abreast of potential changes to the time and location of all demonstrations.
VIETNAM
Travelers in northern and central provinces should until at least November 16 plan journeys accounting for disruption during the passage of Typhoon Vamco. The weather system is currently forecast to gradually weaken to a tropical storm before making landfall on the coast between Ha Tinh and Thua Thien Hue provinces on the morning of November 15. Strong winds and heavy rain can be expected during Vamco’s passage. The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) maintains a ‘Level 3’ disaster risk warning (middle tier on a five-tier scale).
EUROPE
ARMENIA
Travelers in urban centers should avoid further gatherings linked to the recent signing of a peace deal with Azerbaijan, due to the risk of local disruption and unrest. The agreement is related to the conflict over NagornoKarabakh, and travelers should abide by ongoing martial law provisions. On November 11, a well-attended protest took place at Freedom Square in Yerevan, during which participants called for the resignation of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. Demonstrators also marched towards the National Assembly, resulting in scuffles with security forces.
AZERBAIJAN
Travelers in urban centers should anticipate large celebratory gatherings in the coming days following the signing of a peace agreement related to Nagorno-Karabakh with Armenia. The agreement, brokered by Russia, was signed overnight on November 9-10. Celebratory gatherings have been reported, including in Baku and Ganja. Further large gatherings are likely in the coming days. While these will remain peaceful, associated disruption can be expected. Travelers should avoid all gatherings to minimize inconvenience.
DENMARK
Human infections with mink-associated variant strains of SARS-CoV-2 have been detected. Authorities are working to limit the spread of this variant among minks and humans. Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Severe disease is possible. There is no change to preventive advice. Follow usual precautions to prevent infection including paying attention to hygiene, wear a mask in public, wash hands frequently, avoiding touching your face, and keeping a distance of 6 feet with other. Do not travel if you are sick.
FRANCE
Travelers in Paris on November 14 should play journeys bypassing a demonstration over COVID-19-related restrictions. The protest is planned from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM local time at Place du Trocadero. While the event is likely to pass off peacefully, police are liable to disperse crowds to enforce COVID-19-linked restrictions.
Travelers on essential travel to France should abide by measures related to a nationwide lockdown in place until at least December 1 and a State of Health Emergency in place until at least February 16, 2021. Only essential movement for proven work-related reasons, health reasons or emergencies is allowed, with a mandatory certificate. All public gatherings are banned. Travelers are advised to reconfirm region- and city-specific measures as there is a potential for sudden changes in local restrictions and containment measures.
Travelers in France on November 16-21 should expect disruption during demonstrations around the second anniversary of the Yellow Vests (‘Gilets Jaunes’) movement and plan journeys accordingly. Despite a nationwide lockdown and other COVID-19-related restrictions, participants intend to gather across the country on November 17 to mark the specific anniversary. Protests are allowed under the current State of Emergency; details of the gatherings will be confirmed at the last minute. Scheduled and unplanned rallies may cause significant traffic disruption, and there is a risk of local unrest. Any unruly gatherings will be forcibly dispersed by police.
GEORGIA
Travelers in Tbilisi on November 14 should plan journeys bypassing a protest organized by the opposition United National Movement as a precaution and to minimize travel delays. Participants will gather at 3:00 PM local time on Shota Rustaveli Avenue to denounce the results of the October 31 Parliamentary Elections. Local traffic disruption can be expected in the vicinity of the event. Security forces may also employ heavy handed tactics to disperse protesters, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
GERMANY
Travelers in urban centers in the coming days should anticipate and avoid demonstrations by the “Querdenken” (Lateral Thinking) movement over COVID-19 restrictions. On November 14, marches are planned at 12:00 PM local time from Kaiserstrasse to Goetheplatz in Frankfurt and at 11:00 AM local time from Friedenstrasse to Dultplatz in Regensburg. On November 15, activists will march at 3:00 PM local time from Rheinwiesen to the city center in Dusseldorf. Local unrest was reported during previous associated gatherings.
Travelers in Berlin on November 13 should plan journeys bypassing a rally organized by the Danish far-right Stram Kurs (SK) party as a precaution and to minimize travel delays. Participants will gather at 4:00 PM local time on Sonnenallee Street. A counter-protest is also set to be held at the same location from 3:30 PM local time. Some events previously staged by the SK notably resulted in local disturbances. Any ensuing scuffles between rival demonstrators or demonstrators and police during the upcoming rally would pose incidental risks to bystanders.
GREECE
Travelers on essential travel in Greece should abide by COVID-19-related restrictions. A nationwide lockdown is ongoing until at least November 30. Additionally, from November 13, a curfew will be observed from 9:00 PM to 5:00 AM local time. Only essential movement, such as for work purposes, is allowed during curfew hours. All movement requires permission from authorities.
Travelers in the vicinity of Vathy Refugee Camp on Samos Island should expect heightened security in the coming days following recent fires and ongoing related security investigations. A fire broke out on November 11, leaving at least 300 people homeless. The following day, another part of the camp caught fire. The cause of the fires remains unclear, but police are investigating arson, which could further limit movement in the surrounding areas. Although no protests have occurred after these fires, travelers should exercise caution due to the credible risk of demonstrations by migrants and the local population.
SPAIN
Travelers in urban centers over the coming weeks should continue to anticipate and avoid further protests over COVID-19-related restrictions, due to the risk of local unrest. Disruptive demonstrations have intensified since October 9 following the announcement of tighter restrictions. On November 7, hundreds of anti-vaccine and antilockdown demonstrators gathered in Madrid. At least 12 were injured in clashes between protesters and police. Announcements of additional restrictions are likely to trigger further discontent and unrest.
UNITED KINGDOM
Travelers in Bristol on November 14 should plan journeys bypassing an anti-lockdown demonstration to minimize travel delays. Participants affiliated with the STANDUPX activist group will gather at 12:00 PM local time at College Green to denounce COVID-19-related restrictions imposed by the government. They will then march along an undisclosed route through the city center. A heightened security presence can be expected around the event, particularly as it is set to move forward despite an ongoing ban on gatherings of more than 30 people. Local traffic disruption is also likely in the vicinity of the march route.
Travelers in the UK should continue to abide by COVID-19-related restrictions after the government reintroduced a lockdown in England until at least December 2. The measure entails advice to stay at home except for specific purposes and restrictions on social gatherings and business activities. Separate regulations apply to Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
